Winemaker’s Notes

From 1973 to 1982, Walter Schug crafted some of California’s most memorable Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends as the founding winemaker for Joseph Phelps Vineyards. In this legacy, we craft our Heritage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon to exhibit the same finesse, intensity, and ageability that have made his earlier wines valuable collector’s wines.

Well-structured Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec are sourced from Rancho Salina, a volcanic soil vineyard high above the Sonoma Valley in the southern end of the Mayacamas Mountains. Select Cabernet Sauvignon barrels from Atwood Vineyard provide complexity. Merlot from Sangiacomo Vineyard in southern Carneros offers a lush mid-palate, with Petit Verdot and Malbec from Pickberry Vineyard on Sonoma Mountain enhancing the long, rich finish. is wine shows dense color and structure; intense aromas of dark cherry and plum; and ripe flavors of dark fruits and warm spice. Well-integrated tannins, soft oak, and acidity give it a balanced and elegant texture and finish. is lovely wine can be enjoyed on release to pair with rich meats and cheeses, yet will reward cellaring for a decade or more.

“The medium ruby colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Heritage Reserve is made up of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 7% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. It has classic aromas of dried herbs, cast iron, graphite and blackcurrants with floral touches, and the palate is medium-bodied and restrained with herb-laced fruits, good freshness and a simple finish. 340 cases produced.​”

Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate